Former PM Bennett Sparks Haredi Outrage Over 'Haredi State' Criticism Amid Tisha B'Av

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has ignited sharp criticism from the Haredi community following his article on the Srugim website, where he called for dismantling the so-called "Haredi state" and warned of a "Third Temple destruction." A senior Haredi political figure accused Bennett of exploiting the solemn days of Tisha B'Av for political gain, stating Bennett aims to "starve Haredi families cruelly" and "choke Torah scholars." Bennett described the autonomous Haredi community within Israel as a "serious existential threat" to the country's future and a key factor in societal division.

The backlash comes amid ongoing tensions over the conscription of yeshiva students and funding for religious institutions. The senior Haredi source vowed to resist any interference in their education system, emphasizing, "We will not sell our children's souls for lentil stew." Bennett's article appears at a politically sensitive time, as his "Together" party's poll numbers have declined from previous highs. Recently, Bennett has positioned himself as a unifier warning against societal division, yet his latest statements have provoked accusations of deepening rifts.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also issued a statement for Tisha B'Av, calling to prevent a "civil war" and pledging to form a broad national unity government after the elections. He stressed the need for Israelis to stand "shoulder to shoulder" rather than as adversaries. As the election campaign intensifies, the contrast between calls for unity and the reality of political and social fractures in Israel becomes increasingly stark. Bennett's article and the ensuing harsh responses highlight the profound divisions within Israeli society, especially poignant during a period meant for reflection on the dangers of baseless hatred.